As someone who loves stories of grit, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, I’m always intrigued by the journeys of Shark Tank products. One story that truly caught my attention is Blinger—a sparkly, innovative product designed to transform hair with dazzling crystals. This isn’t just a story of a cool product; it’s a tale of determination, adaptability, and the transformative power of mentorship. Let’s dive into the journey of Blinger and its founder, Angie Cella, as they conquered challenges, captivated the Sharks, and built a thriving business.
What Is Blinger?
Blinger is a one-of-a-kind hair accessory tool that allows users to apply crystals and gems to their hair with ease. The best part? No heat, glue, or adhesives are involved, ensuring that hair remains undamaged. Whether for everyday sparkle or special occasions, Blinger turns heads (quite literally) with its effortless application and unique charm.
The genius behind this glittering idea is Angie Cella, a single mom of four from Avondale, Arizona. Angie’s vision began as a dream, quite literally—she dreamt of a product that would make accessorizing hair fun and easy. Over four years of hard work, setbacks, and persistence, she turned that dream into reality. And who better to present this glitzy creation to than the Sharks?
Angie, along with her daughter Cambria, brought Blinger to Shark Tank in Season 15, Episode 20. Their pitch was unforgettable, filled with energy and heart.
The Shark Tank Pitch
When Angie and Cambria stepped into the Tank, they weren’t just presenting a product; they were sharing a vision. They asked for $200,000 in exchange for 5% equity, giving Blinger a valuation of $4 million. That’s a bold ask, but Angie’s pitch was equally bold.
During the presentation, Angie demonstrated how Blinger works by effortlessly applying gems to Cambria’s hair. The Sharks watched, fascinated, as the gems adhered perfectly without causing damage. Angie explained the product’s universal appeal—it’s great for kids, adults, and anyone looking to add some sparkle to their day.
There were some memorable moments during the pitch, especially when Barbara Corcoran stepped up with a counteroffer that surprised everyone. Barbara offered $200,000 for a 25% equity stake, but with a condition—she wanted to help restructure the business for better efficiency and scalability.
The Deal
After a moment of consideration, Angie accepted Barbara’s offer. This was a turning point for Blinger. While it meant giving up a larger stake than Angie initially intended, it came with Barbara’s invaluable expertise and guidance. Here are the details of the deal:
- Investment Amount: $200,000
- Equity Exchanged: 25%
- Shark Involved: Barbara Corcoran
- Special Terms: Barbara’s involvement in restructuring the business
This partnership proved to be a game-changer for Blinger.
Blinger’s Shark Tank Journey: Data-Rich Insights
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Blinger’s Shark Tank journey and post-appearance success:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Blinger |
| Founders | Angie Cella and Cambria Cella |
| Season & Episode | Season 15, Episode 20 |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $200,000 for 5% equity |
| Final Deal | $200,000 for 25% equity, plus funding for all purchase orders |
| Shark(s) Involved | Barbara Corcoran |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Barbara’s offer to reorganize the business structure; significant interest from multiple Sharks |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated at $1 million as of 2024 |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | $77,000 in sales within six hours post-episode; $242,000 in the following week |
| Social Media Presence | Active on various platforms; increased engagement post-episode |
| Key Achievements | Featured on major retail platforms; endorsements from celebrities like Serena Williams and Alicia Keys |
Post-Shark Tank Success
Appearing on Shark Tank can be a double-edged sword. While the exposure is invaluable, the increased demand can overwhelm small businesses. Thankfully, Angie was ready for the challenge, and with Barbara’s help, Blinger soared.
Within six hours of the episode airing, Blinger generated $77,000 in sales. By the end of the week, that figure had climbed to $242,000. Barbara’s involvement went beyond just financial investment. She guided Angie in restructuring the business, which included focusing on the core product and simplifying operations to better meet growing demand.
One of the key factors in Blinger’s success was its appeal to both kids and adults. From kids’ parties to glamorous events, Blinger became a go-to accessory tool. Celebrity endorsements from figures like Serena Williams and Alicia Keys added a sparkle of star power to the brand.
Current Status
So, where is Blinger now? As of January 2025, Blinger is thriving. The company’s annual revenue reached $1.6 million in 2023, and its products are available on major retail platforms like Amazon and through the official Blinger website. Social media continues to play a crucial role in the brand’s marketing strategy, with active engagement and a growing follower base.
The net worth of the business is estimated at $1 million, and Blinger shows no signs of slowing down. It remains a popular choice for customers seeking fun, easy, and damage-free ways to accessorize their hair.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The Blinger story offers valuable takeaways for anyone dreaming of starting their own business:
- Persistence Pays Off: Angie spent four years turning her dream into a reality. Her perseverance is a testament to the power of dedication.
- Be Open to Change: Accepting Barbara’s offer required Angie to rethink her business structure. This adaptability was crucial for scaling Blinger.
- Strategic Partnerships Matter: The right mentor or investor can do more than provide funding. They can offer guidance, connections, and strategies that propel your business to new heights.
- Know Your Audience: Blinger’s universal appeal, from children to adults, allowed it to tap into a wide market.
Conclusion
Blinger’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From a dream to a thriving business, Angie Cella’s creation has left an indelible mark in the beauty and fashion world. It’s a shining example of how resilience, adaptability, and the right partnerships can turn an idea into a sparkling success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just someone who loves a good success story, Blinger’s journey reminds us that with enough grit and glitter, anything is possible.